Buying Photocopiers Online - 2017 Expert Guide

Last updated on 08/06/2017 by Amy Harris

Purchasing A Copier Online

Thanks to the internet, it is now possible to buy pretty much anything online – from groceries to clothes to office supplies. However, this can be a double-edged sword as the amount of choice available to consumers can actually be very overwhelming. So, if you’re looking to purchase a photocopier for your business, then where do you start?

This article will look at the reasons for buying a copier online, the buying process and how to get the best deals available.

What type of copies do you need?

Why Buy A Copier Online?

If you're considering buying a photocopier, then you may have done some preliminary online research into the various companies that either manufacture and sell their own branded photocopiers, or act as a re-seller and dealer for a range of brands.

The alternative route is to buy through an office distributor, by catalogue, or via a company sales representative. However, this is time-consuming and less direct than simply clicking a few buttons and making a purchase online.

Should you decide to purchase through a website, then you’ll quickly see the benefits this offers your business. Not only are prices generally cheaper online – due to cheaper overheads – but you’ll find retailers who specialise in specific brands or type of copier such as monochrome, colour or multifunction printers (MFPs), which copy, print, scan and fax. You’ll also find outlets specialising in add-ons or niche but essential office equipment.

Working with and purchasing through online retailers means that you can benefit from their expert product knowledge as well as haggle for a better price. This is especially relevant for photocopiers as most retailers will encourage contact before purchase to discuss the best way to meet your business needs.

You can make further savings online if you consider leasing a copier and negotiate a good rate in your service level agreement; you could even save more money by opting for cheaper, end-of-range or refurbished photocopiers.

The key benefit of buying a copier online though is the ability to take your time and drill down into each machine’s specifications and features, so that you’re fully aware of what you’re purchasing. This helps you or your company’s office manager decide whether the machine will meet the needs of the office without being swayed face-to-face by a sales representative. This helps you establish a better idea of the types of model available and the features you will need before making that first enquiry.

Online Photocopier Service

All reputable online companies will have a telephone number for sales, allowing you to speak to a knowledgeable product expert. They may also have an online form to complete which will allow you to input your requirements and then be contacted by the most-relevant dealers directly.

A good specialist photocopier firm will be able to offer you an excellent service from the moment you decide to make the first enquiry. Their sales consultants will be able to discuss your needs and, if necessary, be able to visit your premises and assess your office needs in person. Their in-house technicians can also ensure any issues with your copier are sorted quickly, thanks to their high-level, model specific training attained through manufacturer training courses.

Alongside these technicians, there should also be IT professionals who will be able to install your photocopier and connect it to your network, enabling remote copying and printing throughout your office.

Online Photocopier Purchase Considerations

Buying a photocopier online requires the same amount of caution that you’d use when making any physical purchase. Choosing a reputable firm is important, so you should ensure that their website has all the necessary information present to help you make an informed decision.

You should also familiarise yourself with their aftersales policy and whether on-going service checks are included in any deal you might make.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Photocopier

Finally, here is a quick checklist to consider when looking online:

Do you need colour or black & white printing, or maybe both?

How many copies will be made a month?

Do you need a copier with a high paper capacity?

How fast a print speed do you need?

Do you need advanced printing features, e.g. enlarging/reducing size, able to print on a variety of paper, offers double-sided printing (duplex printing)?

Do you need a machine that can perform administrative tasks such as collating, hole-punching and stapling?

Would the copier need network connectivity capabilities?

Would fax and email capability be useful?

Do you want a machine that offers usage monitoring and password protection?

Obviously, the more functions a photocopier has, the higher the cost, but there are some great deals from online retailers which may keep your costs very low. You should always review your business needs before committing to a purchase.

Next Steps

To make buying or leasing a photocopier easier than easy, just fill in the form at the top of the page, letting us know your business needs and we will match you with a number of top UK companies who will be able to meet them.